One-Pot Baked Ziti with Ricotta Swirl

Ingredients

• 180 g ziti (or penne)
• 200 g ricotta cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 0.5 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic(optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 0.25 tsp salt(optional)
• 0.125 tsp black pepper(optional)
• 0.5 cup grated mozzarella(optional)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In an oven-safe pot or baking dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. If using garlic, sauté 30–60 seconds, then stir in marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, and salt/pepper.

2. 2

   Stir ziti into the sauce. Bring to a simmer, cover, and bake for 25 minutes. Stir once halfway through if possible.

3. 3

   While the ziti bakes, mix ricotta with 1–2 tbsp of the hot sauce (to loosen). After 25 minutes, stir the ricotta into the pot in a swirl pattern (drop spoonfuls and gently swirl). Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan if using.

4. 4

   Bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until bubbly and the pasta is tender. Rest 5 minutes before serving for a creamy, scoopable texture.